Thursday, August 10, 2023

That time of the Year again

Each August I check the dotterel signage and replace, if necessary. It's hung on a taped fence across a vulnerable shell bank.

 


 August to March is the breeding season of some of our local shorebird species including the New Zealand dotterel, variable oystercatcher and pied stilt. Banded rail also breeds at this time. 

 There is clear 'No Dog' signage but that doesn't always deter people bringing their dogs to this sensitive wildlife area. A second line of defence was required and this little taped fence & sign seems to do the trick.


There are always additional things to see when visiting the estuary. This time a rather splendid jellyfish washed up by the high tide. Just checking the identification. It's about 50cm across.  It could be a   Lions Maine (Cyanea rosea). I do hope another high tide will take it back to the ocean.